Fruitful Land

Wolly Apple Aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum)

Description:

Wolly Aphids are an indirect pest of apples. Colonies of reddish brown adults and nymphs produce waxy secretions that resemble tufts of white wool. Wooly aphids overwinter as adults on roots and tree trunks.

Damage:

Wooly aphids cause the formation of nodules on the roots of infected trees, these nodules can split and form cankers weakening the tree. The aphids secrete honeydew that can favor the growth of sooty mold.

Control:

Wooly aphids can be controlled by selective pesticides when they are seen on the branches. There is no control measures for them during their underground stages. Preserving natural preditors is still a very good alternative to chemical warfare,

For More details Download Aphid sheet from Minnesota Department of Ag  Aphids (PDF: 162 KB / 4 pages)